Easy Canned Green Beans with Mushrooms and Bacon: A Delicious & Quick Recipe

Canned green beans are a pantry staple, but let’s be honest, they can be a little bland on their own. This recipe transforms humble canned green beans into a flavor-packed side dish with the addition of savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a few simple seasonings. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple side for your grilled chicken or a flavorful component for a potluck, these green beans are sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it elevates the simple flavor of canned green beans with complementary ingredients that add depth and richness. Bacon provides a smoky, salty base, while mushrooms contribute an earthy, umami element. The combination of garlic, onion, and a touch of soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce) further enhances the overall flavor profile. The result is a surprisingly delicious and satisfying side dish that’s far from boring.

Here’s a breakdown of why each ingredient plays a vital role:

* **Canned Green Beans:** The convenient base of our dish. Choose your favorite cut – French style, whole, or cut – they all work well.
* **Bacon:** Adds smoky, savory flavor and rendered fat for sautéing the vegetables.
* **Mushrooms:** Earthy and umami, mushrooms complement the green beans and bacon beautifully.
* **Onion & Garlic:** Aromatic foundation for building flavor.
* **Soy Sauce (or Worcestershire Sauce):** Adds depth and umami.
* **Olive Oil (or Bacon Fat):** Used for sautéing the vegetables. Bacon fat adds extra flavor if you have it.
* **Black Pepper:** Adds a touch of spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained
* 4 slices bacon, diced
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (or reserved bacon fat)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment Needed

* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander (for draining green beans)
* Cutting board
* Knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying side dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Place the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet (if desired; otherwise, use olive oil).

*Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the bacon. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.* If you are using a thicker cut of bacon, you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the olive oil (or reserved bacon fat) to the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

*Tip: If the onions start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. You want them to soften and become translucent without burning.* A pinch of salt added to the onions while they are cooking will help draw out their moisture and speed up the process.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. The mushrooms should be nicely browned. If the pan seems dry, you can add a little extra olive oil or butter.

*Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan with mushrooms, as this will cause them to steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.* Different varieties of mushrooms will have different cooking times. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Step 4: Add the Green Beans

Drain the canned green beans thoroughly in a colander. Add the drained green beans to the skillet with the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Stir to combine.

*Tip: Make sure the green beans are well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming watery.* You can pat them dry with a paper towel for even better results.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Add the soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce) and black pepper to the skillet. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Stir well to coat the green beans with the seasonings. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

*Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more soy sauce or pepper to suit your taste.* Simmering the green beans allows the flavors to combine and creates a more cohesive dish.

Step 6: Add the Bacon and Serve

Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet with the green beans. Heat through for a minute or two. Serve hot and enjoy!

*Tip: Reserve a little bacon for garnish if you want a more visually appealing presentation.* A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives would also add a nice touch.

Tips and Variations

* **Use Fresh Green Beans:** If you prefer, you can substitute fresh green beans for canned. Trim and blanch the fresh green beans for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet. You’ll need about a pound of fresh green beans.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
* **Add Nuts:** Toasted almonds or pecans would add a nice crunch to this dish.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of bacon fat or olive oil. You can also add a tablespoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Add a touch of lemon:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
* **Cheese Please:** A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a salty, savory note.

Serving Suggestions

These green beans with mushrooms and bacon are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, including:

* Grilled chicken or steak
* Roasted pork or ham
* Baked salmon
* Meatloaf
* Pasta dishes

They are also a great addition to holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.

## Make Ahead Instructions

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Prepare the recipe as directed, but do not add the bacon until just before serving. Store the green bean mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, then add the bacon and heat through.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover green beans with mushrooms and bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 200-250
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 5-7g
* Cholesterol: 20-30mg
* Sodium: 500-700mg
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 3-5g
* Protein: 5-7g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.* It’s always best to calculate the nutritional information based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned?**

A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Thaw them slightly before adding them to the skillet and cook until tender.

**Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?**

A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

**Q: Can I make this dish vegan?**

A: Yes, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of bacon fat or olive oil. You can also add a tablespoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly; some brands contain honey.

**Q: How can I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?**

A: Make sure to drain the canned green beans thoroughly before adding them to the skillet. Avoid overcooking the green beans during the simmering step.

**Q: Can I add other seasonings?**

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, or a pinch of smoked paprika would all be great additions.

**Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?**

A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the label of your soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce) to ensure it is gluten-free.

## Conclusion

This recipe for canned green beans with mushrooms and bacon is a simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly way to transform a pantry staple into a delicious side dish. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make green beans! Remember to adjust the recipe to your personal preferences and have fun experimenting with different variations. Happy cooking!

This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special. It’s a reminder that delicious food doesn’t always have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, embrace the ease and flavor of this recipe and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!